Oven-Baked Chicken Breast
If you’re looking for a foolproof way to make chicken breast juicy, tender, and packed with flavor—this Oven-Baked Chicken Breast recipe is a total game-changer!
With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll create a beautifully golden crust that locks in moisture, leaving you with the juiciest chicken ever.
Ready in just 23 minutes, this recipe is your new weeknight hero!
Trust me, the whole family will love it.
For Oven-Baked Chicken Breast
- Chicken Breasts – Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts (150 – 180g / 5 – 6 oz each). These are perfect for a quick and easy dinner.
- Olive Oil – Drizzle on the chicken to help the seasoning stick and promote a crispy golden crust.
For Seasoning
- Brown Sugar – A touch of sweetness that helps create a semi-sauce while the chicken bakes, keeping it juicy.
- Paprika – Adds a subtle smokiness and color to the chicken.
- Dried Oregano or Thyme – Choose your favorite herb for extra flavor.
- Garlic Powder – A bit of garlic flavor without the fresh garlic.
- Salt and Pepper – Essential for balancing out the flavors and seasoning the chicken perfectly.
Optional Garnish
- Fresh Parsley – Finely chopped for a burst of color and freshness.
Oven-Baked Chicken Breast Recipe
This easy and flavorful Oven-Baked Chicken Breast recipe results in juicy, tender chicken with a golden, crispy crust. Ready in just 23 minutes, it's the perfect quick dinner for busy nights. Customize it with your favorite herbs and enjoy it with a delicious side!
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts (150 – 180g / 5 – 6 oz each)
- 2 tsp olive oil
Seasoning
- 1½ tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried oregano (or thyme, or any herb of your choice)
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp pepper
Optional Garnish
- Finely chopped parsley
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C), or 200°C if using a fan oven.
- To ensure even cooking, lightly pound the chicken breasts to 1.5 cm (0.6 inches) thick at the thickest part. You can use a rolling pin, meat mallet, or even your fist for this step.
- In a small bowl, mix together the seasoning ingredients (brown sugar, paprika, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper).
- Line a baking tray with foil and parchment paper for easy cleanup. Place the chicken breasts upside down on the tray. Drizzle one teaspoon of olive oil over each breast, then rub it in using your fingers. Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over the chicken.
- Flip the chicken breasts and drizzle with the remaining olive oil. Rub in the oil and season the other side of the chicken.
- Bake for 18 minutes or until the surface is golden and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check the doneness.
- Remove the chicken from the oven and transfer it to serving plates. Let it rest for 3 – 5 minutes before serving.
- Optionally, garnish with freshly chopped parsley and enjoy with a side dish like garlic butter rice or a vegetable of your choice.
Notes
- For larger chicken breasts (around 250g / 8 oz or more), you can slice them in half horizontally to create two thinner pieces. This eliminates the need for pounding. Just ensure they are no thicker than 1.5 cm at the thickest part.
- This recipe can also be made with boneless, skinless chicken thighs. For smaller thighs, cook for 25 minutes, and for larger thighs, bake for 30 minutes.
- How can I make sure my chicken breasts are juicy and tender?
To keep your chicken juicy, don’t overcook it! A meat thermometer is your best friend. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Pull the chicken out at 160°F (71°C) and let it rest—this keeps it tender without drying it out. - Why should I pound the chicken before cooking?
Pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness ensures they cook uniformly, preventing some parts from drying out. It also helps to make the chicken nice and tender—plus, it cooks faster! - Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
While it’s always best to use thawed chicken for even cooking, if you’re in a pinch, you can use frozen chicken. Just make sure to thaw it fully in the fridge beforehand to avoid uneven cooking. - How can I add extra flavor to the chicken?
For more flavor, try marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes before cooking. A simple mix of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and your favorite herbs will do wonders. Also, don’t skimp on the seasoning before baking—it makes a big difference! - What if my chicken isn’t browning like I want it to?
If the chicken isn’t getting that perfect golden brown, pop it under the broiler for an extra 1-2 minutes at the end. Just keep an eye on it to avoid burning! If you need extra color, brush the chicken with a little olive oil or melted butter before baking.
